Manchester man killed in Auburn snowmobile accident

Staff ReportsFebruary 16. 2013 8:09PMAUBURN — A Manchester man was killed and his 9-year-old son seriously injured when their snowmobile struck a rock near Lake Massabesic Saturday afternoon.

Officials confirmed the victim was Keith Ryan Jr., 41.<br/<br/>Auburn Fire Chief Bruce Phillips said emergency responders were on the scene within minutes after the accident and performed CPR on the man. He was taken by ambulance to Elliot Hospital, where he was pronounced dead, the chief said.

The boy was seriously injured and also taken to the Manchester hospital.

The man and the boy were both wearing helmets, but sustained serious injuries to other parts of their bodies, according to Fish and Game.

Fish and Game officials said the pair were riding together on a single snowmobile around 3:30 p.m. in Front Park. According to witnesses, the two hit a bump causing the machine to accelerate rapidly. Both were ejected from the machine and thrown onto rocks. The machine also continued into a rock, launching it about 72 feet through the air and into a small brook, authorities said.

The father and son were riding with another friend who was behind them on a separate snowmobile when the accident occurred. The friend called 911. Two nearby fishermen also witnessed the accident and ran over to help and stood by until rescuers arrived on scene.

Auburn police and fire departments, Derry Fire and Rescue, Manchester Water Works and NH Fish and Game Conservation Officers responded.

"This incident serves as a reminder for all riders to use due care and caution at all times when operating snowmobiles and" off highway recreational vehicles, said Conservation Officer Geoffrey Pushee.